How to Reset Your PS4 Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a fantastic gaming console, and its DualShock 4 controller is a key part of the experience. However, like any piece of technology, the controller can sometimes encounter issues. Buttons might stop responding, it might not connect to the console, or it could just generally act erratically. When these problems arise, a simple reset can often be the solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various methods to reset your PS4 controller, ensuring you can get back to gaming as quickly as possible.

Why Reset Your PS4 Controller?

Before diving into the ‘how,’ let’s briefly discuss the ‘why.’ Resetting your PS4 controller can help resolve a wide array of issues, including:

• Connectivity Problems: The controller might not sync with your PS4 console or may frequently disconnect during gameplay.
• Input Lag or Unresponsiveness: Button presses might not register or have a significant delay.
• Erratic Behavior: The controller might move characters or menus randomly, without your input.
• Charging Issues: Though rare, sometimes a controller reset can help with charging problems.
• Bluetooth Interference: In some cases, interference from other devices can cause controller issues. Resetting can help re-establish a clean connection.

Resetting the controller essentially clears its temporary memory and forces it to re-establish a connection with the console. This is often enough to fix minor glitches and software hiccups.

Method 1: The Hard Reset – Using the Reset Button

The most common and effective way to reset your PS4 controller is by using the physical reset button located on the back of the controller. This method is quick, straightforward, and typically resolves most issues.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Locate the Reset Button: Turn your DualShock 4 controller over, so you are looking at the back. You’ll see a small, pinhole-sized opening next to the L2 shoulder button, usually positioned on the right-hand side (when looking at the back). This is the reset button.

2. Prepare a Tool: You’ll need a small, thin object to press the reset button. A straightened paperclip, a SIM card ejector tool, a safety pin, or even a thumbtack (with caution) will work. Avoid using sharp objects that might damage the opening.

3. Press the Reset Button: Gently insert the end of your chosen tool into the reset button hole. Press down firmly, but not too hard. You will feel a slight click. Hold the button down for at least 5-10 seconds.

4. Release the Reset Button: After holding the button for the required duration, release it. You will not see any visual or auditory confirmation that it was reset but trust that it is working.

5. Re-Sync the Controller: Now, you’ll need to re-pair the controller with your PS4. Turn on your PS4 console. Connect your controller to the PS4 using a USB cable. Press the PlayStation button on the controller to power it on. The controller should now sync and pair with your console. You will now be able to use your controller wirelessly again.

Important Notes:

• Be Gentle: Don’t force the tool into the reset hole, as you could potentially damage the button or the internal components.
• USB Cable: Always use a good quality USB cable for re-pairing. A damaged or low-quality cable can sometimes cause pairing issues.
• Controller Connection: If the controller still doesn’t connect, try a different USB cable or a different USB port on your PS4.

Method 2: Power Cycling the Controller

Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve connection or other controller-related problems. Power cycling essentially means turning the controller completely off and then back on, allowing it to clear any temporary errors.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Power Off the Controller: Press and hold the PS button on the controller for about 10 seconds. The light bar on the top of the controller will go off, and the controller will power off.

2. Disconnect From USB (If Connected): If the controller was plugged into your PS4 via USB, disconnect the cable from the controller.

3. Wait a Few Minutes: Leave the controller off for at least 2-3 minutes. This gives the internal components sufficient time to clear any temporary data or issues.

4. Power On the Controller: Press the PS button again to power it back on. The light bar will now turn on.

5. Test the Controller: Check if the controller is now working properly. If the controller was not connected previously it should try to connect to the last device it was connected to. If this is your PS4 it should connect now. If you were connected and having issues, make sure those are now resolved.

Important Notes:

• Complete Power Down: Ensure the controller has fully powered off before attempting to turn it back on.
• Time Is Key: Don’t rush the waiting period. Allowing enough time ensures a complete refresh.
• Pairing Issues: If the controller still doesn’t connect after power cycling, try the hard reset using the reset button as detailed in Method 1.

Method 3: Check the USB Cable and Ports

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the controller itself, but with the USB cable or the ports you’re using. A faulty cable or a dirty USB port can prevent the controller from syncing or charging properly.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Inspect the USB Cable: Check for any visible damage, such as frayed wires, bends, or broken connectors. If you see any damage, replace the cable with a new, good quality USB cable.

2. Try a Different USB Cable: Even if the cable looks fine, try using a different USB cable. Sometimes, a cable can be faulty internally even if there is no external damage.

3. Test Different USB Ports on the PS4: Your PS4 has multiple USB ports. Try connecting the controller to a different port. A particular port on your PS4 may be malfunctioning.

4. Clean USB Ports: Use a can of compressed air or a soft brush to gently clean out any dust or debris that may be trapped inside the USB ports on your PS4 console and controller.

5. Test Again: Connect the controller via USB using a good cable into a different port, and see if this helps with the connectivity issue. If your controller was not connecting before, try to use it now.

Important Notes:

• Quality Cables: Always use good-quality, reliable USB cables, preferably those that came with your PS4 or are officially licensed. Low-quality cables can be inconsistent and cause issues.
• USB Port Cleaning: Be careful when cleaning USB ports. Avoid using sharp or metallic objects that could damage the internal pins.
• Try Another Device: If you are not sure the cable is working you can test it using another USB charging port and another device. If that other device charges using the cable you have, then the cable is not the problem.

Method 4: Charge the Controller Fully

A low battery can sometimes cause connectivity and responsiveness issues. Although the PS4 controller can operate when plugged in, a low or dead battery can sometimes lead to strange behavior when it is trying to charge. It is always a good idea to have a fully charged controller.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Connect the Controller: Use a good USB cable to connect the controller to your PS4 console or any USB power outlet. If you are using the console, make sure the console is turned on or in rest mode.

2. Charge Fully: Allow the controller to charge fully. The light bar on the controller will blink orange slowly while charging and will stop glowing when fully charged.

3. Test Functionality: Disconnect the cable and see if the controller is still experiencing issues.

Important Notes:

• Charging Time: A full charge for a completely drained PS4 controller can take up to 2-3 hours.
• Controller Battery Health: Over time, the battery in your controller may degrade, which can affect its charging performance. If your controller is not holding charge or only charging a very small amount, the battery might be reaching the end of its life and will require a replacement controller.

Method 5: Update Controller Firmware

Outdated controller firmware can sometimes lead to compatibility issues. While the PS4 usually handles firmware updates automatically, it’s a good idea to ensure your controller is using the latest version, especially if you’re facing problems.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Connect the Controller: Connect your controller to your PS4 console using a USB cable. This is required to update the firmware.

2. Navigate to Settings: From the PS4’s main menu, navigate to ‘Settings.’ This is the toolbox icon.

3. Access Devices: Scroll down and select ‘Devices’ from the Settings Menu.

4. Select Controllers: Select ‘Controllers’ to see the controller settings.

5. Choose Communication Method: Select ‘Communication Method.’ This is how you connect your controller to the system.

6. Select ‘Use USB Cable’: Choose ‘Use USB Cable’ from the options provided.

7. Select Update System Software: Go back to the main ‘Settings’ menu, scroll down to the bottom and select ‘System’.

8. Select System Software: Select ‘System Software.’

9. Select ‘Update System Software’: In this menu, you will see various update methods. Select ‘Update System Software’ to check for any updates, including controller firmware.

10. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to install any updates available. Your PS4 may require to reboot during this process.

Important Notes:

• Stable Connection: Ensure your PS4 has a stable internet connection during the update process.
• Do Not Interrupt: Do not interrupt the update process. Let the updates complete, as interruptions can lead to firmware corruption.
• Software Issues: If you are having repeated software related issues with the controller you should also make sure the console itself is also fully up to date.

Method 6: Check for Bluetooth Interference

Bluetooth interference from other devices can sometimes affect your controller’s connection. If you have multiple Bluetooth devices operating in close proximity, this might be the cause of your controller problems.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Identify Potential Sources: Check for devices that emit Bluetooth signals, such as smartphones, tablets, wireless headphones, smart home devices, and other wireless controllers.

2. Turn off or Disconnect Devices: Temporarily turn off or disconnect nearby Bluetooth devices. This allows you to test if they are causing the interference.

3. Test Controller: Check if the controller’s performance improves when the other Bluetooth devices are off. If this has resolved the issue, try to move the controller, console or Bluetooth devices to different locations to minimise further interference.

Important Notes:

• Frequency Interference: Bluetooth uses the same frequency as many other wireless devices, so be aware of nearby items and try to minimise the use of too many devices simultaneously.
• Channel Switching: If interference persists, you could consider switching the Bluetooth channel on your other devices if that is possible or change the location of the PS4.

Method 7: Factory Reset of the Console (Last Resort)

If none of the above methods resolve the issue, it might indicate a deeper problem with your PS4 console’s settings. A factory reset of the console is a very drastic step that will delete your saved game data unless it is backed up to the cloud, but it will reset all the settings and reinstall the software. This is a last resort and should only be used if nothing else is working. It is strongly advised you back up data before attempting this.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Backup Your Data: Before attempting a factory reset, back up all your saved data to an external USB drive or the cloud using your PlayStation Plus subscription. This step is absolutely crucial to avoid losing data permanently.

2. Access Safe Mode: Turn off your PS4 completely. Press and hold the power button on the console until you hear two beeps. This will boot the console into Safe Mode.

3. Select ‘Initialize PS4’: Connect your controller via the USB cable. In the Safe Mode menu, scroll down and select ‘Initialize PS4’.

4. Choose Reset Method: You have options to choose: ‘Quick’ or ‘Full’. A quick initialization is fast but does not fully wipe the drive. A ‘Full’ initialization will fully wipe the drive, but will take several hours. If you are planning to get rid of your console then you should select the ‘Full’ method. For the purpose of fixing issues with the controller you can select the quick option.

5. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow all the on-screen instructions to complete the factory reset. Your console will restart and will need to be set up again.

6. Restore Your Data: Once the console is reset, restore your backed-up data.

7. Test the Controller: Test the controller to see if the issue has been resolved. If not, the controller or console may have a hardware issue.

Important Notes:

• Data Loss: A factory reset will erase all data from the console’s hard drive. Always back up your data beforehand.
• Time-Consuming: The process can take quite some time, especially if you select the ‘Full’ option. Be prepared to wait.
• Extreme Step: Only use this as a last resort. Try all the other methods before resorting to a factory reset.

Seeking Professional Help

If you’ve tried all the methods mentioned above and your controller is still not working correctly, you might have a hardware issue. In such cases, consider the following:

• Contact Sony Support: Reach out to Sony’s official PlayStation support. They can provide further troubleshooting steps or advise on repair options.
• Professional Repair Services: Look for local or online repair services specializing in game consoles. They can diagnose hardware issues and carry out repairs.
• Replace the Controller: If the controller is beyond repair, consider purchasing a new one. If you are buying a used one, make sure to buy it from a trusted seller.

Conclusion

Dealing with a malfunctioning PS4 controller can be frustrating, but with these comprehensive methods, you have a good chance of resolving the issue yourself. Start with the simplest steps, like the hard reset using the reset button, and work your way up to more complex solutions. Remember to always back up your data before attempting a factory reset of your console. With a little patience and troubleshooting, you’ll be back to gaming in no time!

We hope this guide has been helpful. Happy Gaming!